When I first started trying to live more sustainably — and more frugally — I thought I had to figure it all out on my own. I imagined endless DIY disasters, living by candlelight, and Googling “how to make deodorant out of baking soda and regret.”
But it turns out, there are actually tools, habits, and resources out there that make this lifestyle easier, not harder.
This isn’t a list of trendy stuff or affiliate links disguised as advice. This is just the real, useful stuff I actually lean on to keep life cheap, calm, and a little greener.
I Swear by My “Use It Up First” List
I keep a running list of things I already have that I should probably use before I go buy something new. That includes:
- Open jars of peanut butter
- Three kinds of shampoo
- Craft supplies I forgot I owned
- Random freezer meals
It sounds silly, but this list saves me money every week. It keeps me out of stores, off shopping apps, and focused on what I already paid for.
Small Things I Do Every Day That Quietly Save Me Money
I Borrow Instead of Buying
Before I buy something — tools, books, kitchen gadgets — I ask myself: Can I borrow it?
I’ve borrowed everything from a power drill to a camping stove. Sometimes from neighbors, sometimes from the library, sometimes from that one friend who owns literally everything.
You don’t need to own every single thing. You just need access — and a little courage to ask.
I Use the Library for More Than Just Books
My local library is a goldmine. Beyond free books (which is already amazing), I’ve gotten:
- Free streaming services
- Free digital magazines
- Free workshops on composting, budgeting, and cooking
- Even free seeds during planting season
If you haven’t wandered through your library lately, do it. It’s one of the most underrated resources for a low-cost, intentional lifestyle.
How I Started Saving Hundreds on My Home Bills
I Keep a “Simple Swaps” Cheat Sheet on My Fridge
I made a handwritten list of easy, affordable swaps that make my routines more sustainable without costing more. Stuff like:
- Vinegar + water = all-purpose cleaner
- Baking soda = deodorizer for shoes/fridge/sink
- Cloth rags = no need for paper towels
- Bar soap = lasts longer than body wash
- Tea towels = reusable gift wrap
Having it visible reminds me that being eco-conscious doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. It’s about habit, not perfection.
How I Started a Garden With $0 and an Empty Yogurt Cup
I Use Free Printables to Stay on Track
There are so many free printable resources online now — and I’ve used a ton of them. My favorites are:
- Monthly meal planners
- Zero-waste checklists
- Frugal living trackers
- Budget breakdown sheets
They keep me focused without feeling restricted. If you’re a pen-and-paper person like me, having something physical to check off is strangely motivating.
(And yes, I’ll be sharing my favorites soon on a downloads page!)
Why I Stopped Paying Full Price for Clothes (And What I Wear Instead)
Final Thoughts
Living a simple, low-cost lifestyle isn’t about restriction. It’s about being intentional, creative, and just a little more aware of what you already have. Most of the tools I rely on cost nothing — or have already paid for themselves many times over.
It’s not about doing everything “right.” It’s about doing what works, consistently, and giving yourself credit for every small step.
If you’ve got a go-to resource or frugal habit that makes your life easier, I’d love to hear it. We’re all building our own version of a sustainable life — and we don’t have to do it alone.
Let’s live better, waste less, and keep growing it cheap.